Damaged banknotes in Ireland
Torn, burned, washed, or missing a piece, what it is still worth.
Is a damaged note still worth its face value?
Usually yes. A damaged banknote is not automatically worthless. In Ireland you are reimbursed at full face value if at least 50% of the note survives. Below that it is assessed individually rather than refused outright. Free of charge as a general rule.
Where to take it
| Condition | Where to go |
|---|---|
| More than 50% of the note survives | A bank counter will usually exchange a note that is merely worn or slightly torn. |
| 50% or less survives, or badly damaged | Your national central bank |
How it works
If more than half of the note survives, the national central bank can replace it. If less than half survives, you must be able to prove the missing part was destroyed.
Practical advice
- Do not tape, clean, flatten or otherwise "repair" a damaged note, handling it can destroy evidence the examiner needs.
- Keep every fragment, however small, and store them exactly as found.
- If a note is contaminated or came out of a fire, say so when you submit it; there are handling procedures for that.
- Never assume a damaged note is worthless and throw it away.
Cash declaration rules for Ireland →
Sources: as of 22 September 2026. General information, not legal or financial advice; the issuing authority decides each case.
- Regulation (EU) 2018/1672 on controls on cash entering or leaving the Union · retrieved 22 September 2026
- Damaged banknotes: European Central Bank · retrieved 22 September 2026